Hardening machines focus on dimensional accuracy

Shorter model life-cycles and increasing demands on quality, accompanied by many technological innovations, are driving developments in high-tech industries, such as car or aircraft manufacture. The effect this has on the
production environment is best shown by the example of hardening. Many of their key components go through this process at one stage. It is a process that has to be not only highly accurate. It also has to guarantee unvaryingly good component quality. It is for this reason that the specialists at eldec have committed themselves wholeheartedly to the required standard of reproducibility.

Their MIND modular hardening machines stand for exceptional precision and economic processes. "Reproducibility"is an inalienable word in car production. After all, the car as a product is reliant on the unvarying component quality of the drive shaft. In this context, the focus is on the indispensable hardening process. It is well to remember that during this process the component‘s micro structure undergoes a change that considerable improves its stability. It is the reason why this key process has to guarantee constant eproducibility.

Where quality matters The eldec experts are very well aware of the fact that the interaction between key components – such as inductors, generators and coolant systems – and a multitude of other components – such as indexing tables, spindle drive and control system – is of the utmost importance. Over the last three decades, the company – with headquarters in Dornstetten, near Freudenstadt, Germany – has further developed their hardening technology. And in February eldec became a part of the EMAG Group.

Precision and the integrity of the production process are important to the eldec experts, as Dr Christian Krause, Head of Application Technology, makes plain: "We are frequently contacted by companies that require their components to be of exceptional quality.

We can guaranteed that with our system technology. "At the centre of it is the MIND (Modular Induction) hardening machine, offered in the variants MIND, MIND-M and MIND-S and their different sizes. Generally speaking, using modular technology, the machines are configured to suit individual workpiece dimensions, hardness profiles and production requirements. The modular system ensures that only well proven components are used. This increases machine stability and guarantees that the technology can be offered at an advantageous price performance ratio.

"Engineering of the machine is, of course, greatly influenced by the workpieces to be hardened", explains Herr Krause. "Requirements are discussed in detail with the customer. This is followed by the gradual assembly of the eldec MIND-system, selecting the required key components: basic machine, energy source, inductor, coolant system and – where required – the automation components."

High efficiency, precision dosing For every machine component, the machine builder relies on quality details and the accumulated know-how. The result is a machine that considerably improves the economic viability of the process.

Example: basic machine. The base is constructed of massive, high-precision welded components and includes the main column for the Z-axis. The vibration resistant construction ensures great machining accuracy. Depending on the clamping system used, eldec machines can accommodate workpieces of up to 1,200mm diameter.

Example: generator. Available are micro-processor controlled single- or dual frequency generators with a capacity of 5 to 3,000 kW. They are highly efficient and allow for the required energy to be adjusted with great precision. Their performance also adjusts itself automatically, and with equally great precision, to that of the inductor used.

Example: inductor / tools. These are manufactured according to customer specification, using 3D-CAD software. They are of micrometric accuracy and madsneakers